Find a host site. There may be many suitable rooftops (public or private) for a project—talk to building and property owners. Familiarize yourself with available incentives.

Network. The funding needed for the Bainbridge Island project (nearly $500,000) wouldn’t have been possible without private investors.

Work out the details. The city has a Schedule 150 rate and net-metering agreement with the local utility. At the end of the year, the net is calculated and a payment is made to CSS and the investors directly from the utility, along with all the production incentives for the year.

Have patience. Expect some obstacles. Community systems don’t happen overnight. Be prepared for lengthy negotiations between the involved and their attorneys before an agreement is reached.